Life in Edo | Russel Wong in Kyoto - Learn more about a different time period and multiple aspects of life in Japan

Presented in collaboration with Kobe Shimbun and Russel Wong, the exhibition focuses on Japanese culture and craftmanship, showcasing an array of woodblock prints and photography.

These artworks tell stories of traditional and contemporary Japan, and reveal how one often merges into the other.

The exhibition is presented in two parts, each spotlighting a different time period and multiple aspects of life in Japan.‍‍

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Life in Edo

‍Discover everyday activities of the Edo period (1603–1868)– a showcase of woodblock prints and paintings which have come to be called "ukiyo-e" (pictures of the floating world).

Because these prints are so light-sensitive, a completely new set of prints will be displayed midway through the exhibition. The second half can be seen from 12 July onwards.

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Russel Wong in Kyoto

On the other side of the exhibition, Russel Wong in Kyoto premieres photographs from the celebrity photographer’s 13-year-long, ongoing personal project to document the geiko of Kyoto, shedding light on some of the rarely seen and lesser-known traditions of this private community and their place in modern society.

‍Interpretive Space

Visitors will also be able to discover Japanese art and culture in the interactive space at the ACM's Level 2 Foyer.

You can try customising a virtual woodblock print, photo-editing, and hanging your wishes at the make-a-wish wall.

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Trail Booklet

Suitable for ages 9 and up, the family-friendly Trail Booklet takes you on a trip through Japan (and back in time!).

Head to the musuem to collect a physical copy or download it here.

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Programmes

There will be a mix of onsite and online programmes as part of the exhibition.

Here's some of the more family friendly onsite programmes.

Full program schedule can be found on ACM's website.

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Sunday Out!

Sundays, 9 May, 11 Jul, 12 Sep 2021

1–5pm, Online and Onsite

Learn the art of woodblock printing, make your own pinhole camera, build your own mini Japanese garden, and more.

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Yasumi Fridays

Fridays, 21 May, 23 Jul 2021
7–9pm, Online and Onsite

Pick up basic photography or woodblock printing skills, join a tour conducted by ACM Friends of the Museum docents, or attend a film screening.

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‍Tanabata Celebrations

Wednesday, 7 Jul 2021, Facebook
Saturday, 14 Aug 2021, Onsite

Learn more about the folk legend that inspired the Tanabata Festival and how the event is celebrated in Japan.

All images from Asian Civilisations Museum